Middle Grade Madness | Beautiful Blue World by Suzanne LaFleur

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I’m excited to share with you my thoughts on a heart felt middle grade novel, Beautiful Blue World by Suzanne LaFleur. But before I share my thoughts, read a little bit about the book —

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This post contains affiliate links you can use to purchase the book. If you buy the book using that link, I will receive a small commission from the sale.

I received this book for free from The Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Beautiful Blue World by Suzanne LaFleur
Published by Wendy Lamb Books on September 13th, 2016
Genres: Family, Historical, Middle Grade
Pages: 224
Format: ARC
Source: The Publisher
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads

Sofarende is at war. For twelve-year-old Mathilde, it means food shortages, feuding neighbors, and bombings. Even so, as long as she and her best friend, Megs, are together, they'll be all right.

But the army is recruiting children, and paying families well for their service. If Megs takes the test, Mathilde knows she will pass. Megs hopes the army is the way to save her family. Mathilde fears it might separate them forever.

A reimagining of war, where even kindness can be a weapon, and children have the power to see what adults cannot.

Thoughts:

Why did I pick it up?

Something in the synopsis caught my eye, “children have the power to see what adults cannot.” I had to know what it was – plus, anything with strong relationships, especially friendships, tugs at the heartstrings and I must read it.

Describe the book in 5 words

Heart Warming. Sad. Beautiful. Smart. Emotional.

Who was your favorite character, and why?

Mathilde, naturally. She is such a strong, smart and beautiful girl. Her love and dedication to her family, friends and even those she isn’t too close to is such a beautiful trait and melts my heart. I want to talk more about it, but it’s a major spoiler for the book.

Who would LOVE Beautiful Blue World?

This would be a great read for the classroom, as well as in home to be read together as a family. There are some aspects of the novel that would raise questions from the reader, since it has a lot of similarities to WWII. It is obviously enjoyed by adults, since I enjoyed it!

Are there Illustrations? 

Nope!

Overall thoughts

I adored it. It has a few sad parts – but don’t let that sway you from reading. It’s a beautiful story of love and friendships, and being strong for all of those around you. I highly recommend it!

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Tell me your thoughts

• Have you read Beautiful Blue World? If so, what did you think?
• If not, does it sound like something you’d enjoy?